Engagement Photo Tip: Trust Your Photographer

Warning: Your engagement session photographer may ask you to do things you never thought you'd do in front of a camera (at least not while you're sober). But if you're in good hands, the resulting shots will be breathtakingly beautiful, like these…

Warning: Your engagement session photographer may ask you to do things you never thought you'd do in front of a camera (at least not while you're sober). But if you're in good hands, the resulting shots will be breathtakingly beautiful, like these…

My best friend Emily (who got me my favorite engagement present ) never thought she'd be rolling around in the grass with her fiance, Jeff, during their engagement photo session. But it's a good thing she did because she wound up with some of the most amazing engagement photos I've ever seen.

Clark + Walker Studio, 2010

I'm sure Emily felt a little strange when her photographer (who had met the couple for the first time that day!), suggested that Emily mount Jeff. Still, the photo feels like a private romantic moment. And wow, the sun really cooperated to create such perfect lighting.

Clark + Walker Studio, 2010

How gorgeous is this shot of the couple? And to think, the photographer probably directed them to put their heads together and look down--not words you'd imagine leading to a stunning and intimate picture.

Clark + Walker Studio, 2010

Here, the photographer asked them to dance. Check out the genuine smiles on the couple. Definitely worth feeling a little silly for a few seconds.

Clark + Walker Studio, 2010

And who could have guessed (besides a photographer with an incredible eye!) that a diving board would be the perfect spot to pop a squat for a photo? I also love that Emily's shoes are off, giving the couple an even more relaxed vibe as Jeff pecks Emily on the cheek.

The lesson: If you have a great photographer, give her the benefit of the doubt when she suggests you position yourself a certain way or go to a certain place. She's an expert and her one job is to make sure you love your photos. If you're ever feeling really uncomfortable, say, she's having you kiss or nuzzle in ways you never would, even in private, speak up. A talented photographer will figure out ways to get great shots while staying in your comfort zone.

Would you be able to let your photographer call the shots during your engagement session? What kinds of photos do you want to end up with? How do you feel about sultry photos like some of these?